Southern France in autumn: Our trip through the south was so beautiful

South of France in autumn is quieter, warmer, and more colorful than we expected. When the summer heat subsides and the golden light spreads over the landscape, a time begins in the south that is quieter and perhaps even more beautiful than midsummer.

We were on the road for seven days: through empty villages, over rolling hills, past vineyards and lavender fields slowly changing color. The air smelled of figs, the mistral wind rushed through the alleys, and in the evening, the sunset was all ours.

In this post, we take you on our autumn vacation in the South of France: 7 days, 7 places, 7 impressions – full of color, tranquility, and autumnal beauty.

Why now? Because autumn in the South of France makes many things easier. It's not as hot, not as crowded, and yet the South remains beautiful. We wanted to experience what this calmer rhythm feels like – and were rewarded with special moments.

Monday: The Colors of Roussillon

It was our first autumn morning in the South of France, and it began in color. Roussillon welcomed us with warm light and bright ochre tones that shine even on gray days. The famous Ochre Path was almost deserted, the leaves rustled under our feet, and the red rocks appeared even more intense in contrast to the first yellow leaves.

We let ourselves drift, strolling through the narrow streets, discovering small studios and a café that was still open. Autumn presented itself here not as a farewell, but as a new perspective: quieter, clearer, more intense.

Tip: Start the day early at the Sentier des Ocres. The morning light makes the colors particularly vibrant. In the off-season, it's best to check beforehand which restaurants are open.

Tuesday: Golden Hour in Les Baux-de-Provence

In the afternoon, we headed to Les Baux-de-Provence. The small town sits spectacularly on a rock in the Alpilles and was a real postcard motif in the autumn light. The alleys were almost empty, the old walls shimmered warmly in the sun. And over everything lay that special stillness that autumn brings.

We walked slowly up to the castle ruins, enjoying the view of the olive groves and the wide surrounding countryside. The light conditions towards evening were magical. An ideal destination for those who like to take photos or simply want to observe.

Tip: If you come during the golden hour, you'll have the most beautiful light and usually the most peace and quiet. Particularly impressive: the light show in the "Carrières de Lumières", just a few minutes' walk away.

Wednesday: Light Show in Gordes

On Wednesday, during our autumn vacation in the South of France, we drove to Gordes, one of the most famous villages in Provence. Even in autumn, it loses none of its beauty. The view of the village from the road below is like a picture. Especially in the morning, when the sun sets over the Plateau de Vaucluse and the houses glow in a warm light.

We strolled through the cobbled streets, wandered into small shops, and drank a coffee with a view. It was quiet, almost reverent. No comparison to the hustle and bustle of summer – instead, a village that can breathe again.

Tip: If you want to enjoy the iconic view of Gordes, you should stop at the viewpoint on the D2 just before the town. The light is best in the morning, and in the off-season, even photography is relaxed.

Thursday: Fog over the Camargue

On Thursday, we were drawn to the Camargue, a region that feels very different in autumn than in summer. Instead of shimmering heat, we were greeted by humid air, a hint of fog, and an almost meditative calm. The white horses stood like sculptures in the landscape, flamingos roamed the shallows, and the reeds barely moved.

We drove through the nature reserve, stopping frequently to observe and photograph. The atmosphere was particularly magical around the Étang de Vaccarès. This is where Southern France in autumn felt most like another world – rawer, more pristine, but full of grace.

Tip: The Camargue is ideal in autumn: hardly any tourists, no mosquitoes, but plenty of animals. If you enjoy birdwatching or photography, you should bring binoculars and a bit of patience.

Friday: Tranquility in Saint-Rémy-de-Provence

On Friday, we explored Saint-Rémy-de-Provence, a place that is particularly charming in the fall. The streets are quieter, the boutiques have time for conversation, and the squares have a serenity that is often hard to find in the summer.

We strolled through the pretty old town, browsed in small soap shops, and bought olive oil directly from the producers. The café on the square smelled of espresso and chestnut cake. Southern France in the fall reveals its relaxed side here. Very stylish, but by no means forced.

In the afternoon, we visited the Roman excavations of Glanum, just outside the city gates. We strolled through another era among pine trees and ruins. All in peace and quiet, almost alone.

Tip: If you're interested in art, you should take the "Van Gogh Walk." A signposted trail tells you more about your time in Saint-Rémy – especially beautiful during the mild autumn weather in the South of France.

Saturday: Market Sounds in Apt

Saturday started early for us, even on our autumn vacation! Because if you want to experience the weekly market in Apt, you should take your time. Even in the morning, the alleys of the old town were bustling with life. The smell of fresh bread, herbs, and cheese filled the air. People laughed, tasted, and discussed things among the colorful stalls.

The vendors graciously offered their wares, answered questions, and made recommendations. We strolled past figs, pumpkins, nuts, olives, and honey, finding something that tasted of autumn on every corner.

Later, with a basket full of regional specialties – baguette, goat cheese, fig jam – we sat down on a bench in the sun. During these hours, Apt showed its warm, relaxed side. Not overly lavish, not loud, but honest and inviting. This is exactly what Southern France feels like in autumn.

Tip: The weekly market in Apt takes place every Saturday and is one of the largest in the region. Arriving early is the most relaxing experience. Ideal for anyone looking to pick up some souvenirs to take home.

Southern France in autumn is no longer an insider tip, but a genuine recommendation for those who prefer a more tranquil experience. The temperatures are pleasantly mild, the light is softer, and the atmosphere more relaxed – ideal for a slower-paced trip.

Weather in autumn: Days are often sunny with temperatures of 18–24 degrees Celsius, but it gets chilly in the evenings. A jacket or warm sweater is a must.

Best time to visit: Between mid-September and the end of October, the south reveals its most beautiful side. Nature slowly changes colors, and the heavy summer tourism has already subsided.

Advantages of the off-season: Fewer visitors, more relaxed hosts, cheaper accommodations, and more space for real encounters. Even well-known places like Gordes or Les Baux suddenly seem completely different – more accessible and more natural.

Special highlights: In autumn, the grape harvest begins, olives are harvested, and many small festivals celebrate the region's products. If you like to enjoy food, take photos, or simply take a deep breath, this is the perfect time.

After each day full of impressions, our holiday home was the perfect place to unwind. It was located just outside Saint-Rémy-de-Provence, surrounded by olive trees and rolling hills. No hotel business, no hustle and bustle. Just peace, light, and a panoramic view. Exactly what we were looking for!

In the morning, we drank coffee on the terrace, hearing nothing but the wind in the trees and the birds chirping. In the evening, we simply cooked our own meals, opened a bottle of local red wine, and watched the sun disappear behind the fields.

That's exactly why we love the South of France in autumn: for those small, quiet moments that arise without much planning – and linger.

Are you looking for a similar place for your autumn vacation in the South of France? Many of our casapilot holiday homes are located exactly where the South is at its most beautiful – right in the heart of it all, yet with a place to retreat.

This trip showed us how much beauty lies in the off-season. Without the hustle and bustle, without crowded streets, but with warm light, genuine encounters, and places that can breathe again.

Southern France in autumn is no substitute for summer. It's a chapter of its own. Quiet, clear, and surprisingly intense. For us, it was exactly the right time to truly reconnect—with ourselves and with the moment.